Loneliness and Life Satisfaction in Middle-Aged Mothers: A Comparison of Empty Nesters and Non-Empty Nesters

Abstract

This study compares loneliness and life satisfaction among empty and non-empty nester mothers. The sample comprised 120 middle-aged, unemployed mothers from various districts of Kerala, equally divided into empty and non-empty nesters using purposive sampling. The UCLA Loneliness Scale (Russell, 1996) and Satisfaction With Life Scale (Diener et al., 1985) were used. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and independent samples t-test via Jamovi. Results showed a significant negative correlation between loneliness and life satisfaction in both groups. Empty nesters reported higher loneliness and lower life satisfaction than non-empty nesters.